When you have a medical need, it’s important to find the right doctor. Healthcare professionals are on the front lines fighting disease, injury, and death, as they help people through some of the best–and worst–moments in their lives. With so many options, it’s important to do your research. One way to do that is by reading online reviews. While ratings can be helpful, don’t rely on them alone.
Physicians are licensed doctors who study, diagnose and treat diseases, injuries and other medical conditions. To become a physician, you must have a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field and pass the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Once you graduate from medical school, you can choose to specialize in different types of medicine, depending on your personal interests, your clinical experience, and the type of care that is most needed in your community.
A medical doctor can perform a wide range of procedures, including surgery, chemotherapy, x-rays, injections and blood tests. They can also prescribe medications and offer patient education and counseling. Most physicians also participate in research and are members of professional associations. They must abide by strict ethical standards and be sensitive to the needs of their diverse patient population.
There are two main types of health care providers: medical doctors and doctors of osteopathic medicine (DO). Both use the same methods to treat patients, but DOs also focus on the body’s musculoskeletal system and emphasize holistic patient care. Medical doctors often have a higher level of education and are certified to perform more complex surgical procedures than DOs.
Ratings are based on online patient-satisfaction surveys and can include details such as the doctor’s bedside manner, office staff friendliness, how well they explain medical conditions and how quickly the physician responded to your call. Many websites allow you to sort the results by the doctor’s name, specialty and the number of online reviews. Some doctors pay to have their profiles featured on a rating site, but you can still get quality information about them for free.
The more you know about your doctor, the better prepared you will be for your appointment. Take the time to read online reviews and ask your friends, family and coworkers for recommendations. Then, schedule an appointment to meet with a medical doctor near me and discuss your concerns. Don’t forget to bring a list of your current medications and any previous treatment plans. This will help the doctor get a complete picture of your current health and any health issues that you may have. It’s also a good idea to bring any insurance forms you may have, as well as a list of your family members’ health histories.